Brass Pounders: Young Telegraphers of the Civil War

by Alvin F. Harlow

Hardcover. Book Fair. Jacket Fair.

159 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1962

Reviews

[William O. Robertson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A real eye opener of a read. I thought I knew some of the more obscure historical facts surrounding warfare during the civil war. Sure I knew the importance of how the newly invented telegraph contributed to military strategies on both sides, but I did not know that nearly all the telegraph operators were just young lads-- some pre-teens even—most were under the age of 21 and many dodged bullets as they sent messages out from the battlefield. Since they were non-military and employed by private telegraph companies, they were not provided any military service pension or assistance when the war ended. I am glad books like this have recorded the contribution of these brave young souls.

[virginia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent,spellbinding, exhausting . Brought you into the book and put you their with the telegraphed.

The writer brought me into the book and the telegraphed key is almost in your hands, the fear and excitement are yours. As a CW operator I felt the key in my hand and I copied, with great anticipAtion what was being received. Well done.

[Tim · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent account of the telegrapher’s lot in the Civil War. It describes their crucial role and the skirmishes and narrow escapes they had at that time.

[Jim Perry · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fascinating collection of vignettes of "the little guys" in the Civil War. The use of the "new technology" telegraph figures prominently in the stories, but this is really a story of the grit, boredom, and sacrifice of men during war.

[Bob · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book I found in the souvenir shop at Lincoln's New Salem a long time ago, maybe 1965? Then I found it again, buried in mu book case, and read it again. Liked it both times!